Conrad Smith Saves the Day in First Test

“Under-strength England pushed New Zealand all the way” in the first of three Tests in the 2014 Steinlager Series, with the All Blacks showing “why they are world champions as Conrad Smith’s last-gasp try gave them a dramatic win,” BBC Sport’s James Standley reported from Eden Park.

“England took a 9-3 lead through the boot of Freddie Burns.

“But Aaron Cruden’s kicking kept the hosts in it and it was 15-15 with two minutes remaining and Marland Yarde in the sin-bin for England.

“The hosts spurned a kickable penalty but Smith dived over to secure victory.

“It was a thrilling end to a gripping Test and means the hosts’ 20-year unbeaten run at Auckland’s Eden Park continues.

“It also gives the All Blacks a 1-0 lead in the series but they were given an almighty fright by an England team missing eight players from the XV which started the final Test in the Six Nations.”

The teams meet again in Dunedin on 14 June.

Original article by James Standley, BBC Sport, June 7, 2014.

Photo by AAP Image.